Senate Resolution No. 51 honors the life and legacy of Michael Joseph Westergren, who passed away on July 17, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on August 10, 1946, in Corpus Christi, Westergren faced significant health challenges early in life, including a congenital heart condition that led to pioneering open-heart surgery at 17. He excelled academically, earning a law degree from The University of Texas at Austin in 1970. Throughout his career, he served as a justice of the peace, county attorney, and district court judge, notably presiding over the high-profile trial of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez's murder. After retiring from the bench in 2000, he became the first in-house counsel for Del Mar College.

Westergren was not only a respected legal figure but also a devoted family man, married twice and a father to two children. He was known for his charm, love of life, and diverse interests, including art, music, and community service as a lifelong Rotarian. The resolution expresses condolences to his family and acknowledges his contributions to the Texas community, emphasizing the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his life. The Texas Senate adopted this resolution on September 4, 2025, as a tribute to his memory.